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Driver in January Florida 9A Crash Pleads Guilty to DUI

August 16, 2010 - Jacksonville, FL - The driver who caused the January 14^th crash that took the life of a St. Johns County sheriff's deputy has pleaded guilty to the charge of DUI-manslaughter.

The Florida Times-Union reports that 27-year-old Kris E. Caudilla has pleaded guilty to one count of DUI-manslaughter in circuit court on August 16^th. This was in response to charges stemming from the January accident that claimed the life of Deputy James Anderson Jr. of the St. Johns County Sheriff Department.

Anderson was on his way to work at 3:30 AM when he was hit by Caudilla's vehicle which was traveling north near the Baymeadows Road interchange on Florida 9A's southbound lanes. Investigations show that Caudilla's Blood Alcohol Concentration was .158 at the time of the crash, nearly twice the legal limit. The head-on collision killed Anderson.

In exchange for the guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to not pursue a single count of vehicular homicide, however, the plea arrangement holds Causilla accountable for the DUI-manslaughter charge. No promises were made regarding potential sentencing, but up to 15 years imprisonment is possible. Caudilla's $250,000 bail was revoked at the end of the hearing so he could begin putting time toward his eventual sentence.

As a service to the residents of Jacksonville and the surrounding areas, our firm will frequently publish blogs about local news relevant to our practice areas. We do this to raise awareness about the common types of accidents and events that occur in Florida that may result in serious injury or criminal charges.

If you have been named in this blog or you are the victim's family member or friend and would like the blog removed from our website, please feel free to contact us and we will promptly accommodate your request.

Contacting a Jacksonville DUI Defense Attorney

You have the right to consult with an experienced Jacksonville DUI defense attorney when you are charged with any form of reckless driving or DUI. If you are facing charges of reckless driving or DUI in Florida, a Jacksonville DUI defense attorney from Sullivan & Hepler can help. Contact us today at 904-384-8808 or 1-800-295-4193.

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